Stories of Osaka Life (UNESCO Collection of Representative Works. Japanese Series)

By Oda Sakunosuke, Sakunosuke Oda, Oda Sakunosuke

Book Overview

Oda Sakunosuke (1913-43) is described in Japan as one of the "hooligan school" of writers, who worked before and during WW2. Seeking to create an underground literature in opposition to the traditional literature favored by the militaristic government, these writers often depicted unflattering realities rather than exemplary ideals. By deliberately focusing on Japan's hustlers, bunglers, and misfits, "Stories of Osaka Life" skillfully recaptures the essence of the Osaka temperament: its hedonism, wry humor, and lust for life. Among the preeminent works of one of modern Japan's most admired writers, these stories offer extraordinary characterizations executed with compassion, honesty and humor.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0834803089
• ISBN13: 9780834803084
• Release Date: January 1994
• Publisher: Weatherhill
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.3" x 0.8" x 5.5"

Customer Reviews

Great and (in my opinion) underappreciated book.

I have a tremendous interest in Asian culture, and bought this book for myself on a whim. It turned out to be a lucky choice. Oda Sakunosuke wrote in the period prior to and during WWII. He was one of the "Hooligan School" of writers in Japan and his stories are perhaps too revealing and unflattering for the times in his country. This book has an introduction by the translator, Burton Watson, which, while brief, is highly informative. I loved this book.